Measles Outbreak in Arizona and Utah Could Spell the End for U.S. Elimination Status

A growing measles outbreak in Arizona and Utah is pushing the United States close to losing its long-held measles elimination status, with sustained transmission possible into early 2026. Low vaccination rates in several communities along the Arizona–Utah border have contributed to rapid spread, and cases are also rising in parts of South Carolina.

Public health experts note that most infections involve individuals who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. With holiday travel and indoor gatherings increasing, the situation underscores how quickly vaccine-preventable diseases can re-emerge when population immunity falls, and why localized, trusted health communication remains essential. Read more from NBC here.